One with mostly conservative views but who wants to differentiate themselves from the more hard-line conservatives of old.
Robin Williams: Compassionate conservative. I don't know what that is, it sounds like a Volvo with a gun rack.
by nycemt83 June 22, 2007
Gearge W. Bush isn't even a compassionate conservative!
by Dragonbreathp9d July 11, 2006
by If this isn't obvious, a liberal September 24, 2007
A person who is to the left of traditional conservatism, often but not always a politician who is looking to gain votes from undecided voters. However this strategy leads to hatred from both the left and the right. See RINO
The compassionate conservative voted for the war, but then in an attempt to save their seat voted for massive social programs raising the ire of both liberals and true conservatives.
by Sam9999 August 19, 2009